In the Hornets' first four games this season, the bench has contributed 34, 31, 26 and 25 points, with Smith leading the way in three of those four games, energizing the second unit with his hustle which seems to become contagious.

"It's something I've done throughout my career, but you've got to do that anytime you come off the bench," Smith said. "You've got to give that first group a spark, a little bit of energy, kind of rejuvenate that energy they began the game with. Usually when the second team goes in, it's to give that team a rest. They're a little bit tired, so you amp up the energy and step up the pace a little bit.